Palmer H. Lewis Sanctuary
Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly by Holly Ellerbusch
Bedford, 24 acres, 0.2 miles of trail
This pocket Sanctuary is characterized by mature mountain laurel, and large oaks and hickories. In the woodlands you may find Eastern Coyote, Barred Owl, and Wood Thrush. A small field is maintained for butterflies and Eastern Bluebirds.
Tiger Swallowtail by Holly Ellerbusch
Conservation
Palmer Lewis is a part of the Eastern Westchester Biodiversity Corridor.
Westchester Land Trust holds an easement on the property to ensure a lifetime of habitat conservation.
As part of our 3-year Strategic Plan we are developing a comprehensive Sanctuary Management Plan for Hunt-Parker in 2017 to prioritize habitat restoration, monitoring, and trail projects.
Hit the Trails
We rely mostly on volunteer trail stewards to maintain our hiking trails. Our partners at the New York New Jersey Trail Conference provide free training and organize volunteers.
If you’d like to become a volunteer trail steward, please email info@bedfordaudubon.org
Leave No Trace
The Sanctuary is open seven days a week, from dawn to dusk. Use your best judgement regarding inclement weather, including the risk of wildfire. Stay on marked trails to prevent damage to sensitive ecosystems.
No dogs or other pets allowed. We do love dogs. But dogs, even the most well-behaved, pose a threat to ground-nesting birds and other wildlife. There are many local dog parks where you and your furry sidekick can safely hike and play.
The Sanctuary is for passive recreation. This includes walking and hiking, birding, photography, and nature appreciation and study. No bicycles, snowmobiles, ATVs, or other motorized vehicles are allowed.
No collecting.
Report any trail problems to Tait Johansson.
Visit the Palmer H. Lewis Sanctuary
Directions
- From I-684, take exit 6 to Route 35 east for just shy of 4 miles.
- Turn right onto to Route 121.
- Drive for a little less than 3 miles, and look for the open field about a half mile past the intersection with Route 137.
- Park along Route 121 and hop the guard rail.
- There is a single trail, shared by the Bedford Riding Lanes Association, in the Sanctuary, leading from the small field along the road.
The Bedford Audubon is open 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Monday-Saturday)
Sanctuary trails are open from dawn-dusk 7 days a week.